CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) – NASA's upcoming lunar mission, known as Artemis II, features a diverse crew that deviates significantly from the historical all-white, male lineup of the Apollo era. The Artemis crew includes a woman, a person of color, and a Canadian, signifying the agency’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive astronaut corps. This mission, while not intended for lunar landing or orbit, aims to send the astronauts deeper into space than any Apollo mission, allowing them to capture unprecedented views of the moon's far side.
The Artemis II crew members hail from various backgrounds and experiences, each bringing unique perspectives to this groundbreaking mission that seeks to lay the groundwork for future moon landings.
Commander Reid Wiseman
Reid Wiseman, a 50-year-old retired Navy captain from Baltimore, is leading the mission. Having experienced personal loss with the passing of his wife, Carroll, from cancer in 2020, Wiseman describes solo parenting as his biggest and most rewarding challenge. While he served as NASA's chief astronaut prior to this assignment, he recognizes the emotional toll that space travel may take on his two teenage daughters, particularly his older child who showed “zero interest” in his mission. Nevertheless, after discussing it with them and receiving their support, he is determined to embrace the unique opportunity to lead this mission to the moon.
Pilot Victor Glover
Victor Glover, a 49-year-old Navy captain and former combat pilot from Pomona, California, is excited about contributing to the mission as one of NASA’s few Black astronauts. Glover uses music from the Apollo era, such as Gil Scott-Heron’s “Whitey on the Moon,” to gain perspective on the historical achievements and shortcomings of space exploration. With one prior spaceflight to the International Space Station under his belt, he is dedicated to preparing his four daughters for the rigors and possibilities of space travel as well as focusing on the mission objectives, which include a forthcoming practice docking mission in 2027.
Mission Specialist Christina Koch
Christina Koch, the 47-year-old electrical engineer from Jacksonville, North Carolina, holds the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman, totaling 328 days. Her experience includes participating in the first all-female spacewalk during her tenure at the International Space Station. Koch emphasizes the significance of women being able to participate in lunar missions and feels well-prepared for the shorter duration of this mission compared to her last assignment. She remains lighthearted about her pet dog’s concerns regarding the journey, reassuring her that it will only last about ten days.
Canadian Space Agency’s Jeremy Hansen
Jeremy Hansen, a 50-year-old Canadian fighter pilot and physicist, is participating in his first space mission and represents Canada as its first astronaut to travel to the moon. Growing up near London, Ontario, Hansen reflects on the extensive efforts that went into the Apollo missions. Although he acknowledges the inherent dangers of space travel, he reassures his college-aged son and twin daughters that, despite the risks, they will most likely return safely. His journey marks a significant milestone not just for him personally, but for Canada’s contributions to space exploration.
The Artemis II mission reflects a pivotal moment in NASA’s history, showcasing a new generation of astronauts whose backgrounds and experiences contribute to a richer narrative in space exploration, setting the stage for future moon landings and beyond.
